There is something quietly radical about the upcoming BeyondFest 2025 taking place in Kuala Lumpur on 1 November; What makes it remarkable is how the event is reshaping expectations of what a business gathering can feel like with less boardroom and more creative clubhouse, less polished keynotes and more open, honest conversations.
Rather than sticking to the usual conference format of suits, slides and sales pitches, BeyondFest proudly calls itself an “anti-conference.” It will be held at Amazon Web Services (AWS) Kuala Lumpur, The Gardens North Tower, Level 35, 35 Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City.
The idea is simple yet powerful: bring together founders, creators and community builders in one space, give them the room to explore brand, content, AI and storytelling, and encourage genuine dialogue rather than scripted networking.
The speaker line-up features names, such as Ghazanfar Iqbal, Head of Business Development Startups for AWS in Pakistan, Malaysia and Singapore, and Low Ngai Yuen, Managing Director of AEON360 and a well-known social activist. They will be sharing insights rooted in creativity, authenticity and purpose.
Why authenticity takes the spotlight at BeyondFest 2025
In today’s digital world, where algorithms dominate and brands often feel manufactured, the word “authenticity” risks losing its meaning. BeyondFest aims to reclaim it. The event encourages interactive formats and diverse perspectives so that attendees can leave with insights they can actually apply. It focuses less on theory and more on lived experience, vulnerability and connection.
At its heart, BeyondFest is designed for those who are weary of the traditional “growth hack” mindset. It invites entrepreneurs, creators and coaches to rediscover intention and find community in how they build and communicate.
Creativity meets purpose
This event bridges lifestyle, creativity and self-growth. It redefines creativity not as a luxury but as a vital part of how we live and work. Sessions like “Future Jam with Low Ngai Yuen” explore the role of AI tools in shaping the future of business and branding, while “Eavesdrop: Being Vulnerable Online, How Far Should It Go?” brings together voices like Crystal Lim, Steph Ting and Gary Koay to discuss the balance between visibility and authenticity in digital spaces.
These sessions speak not only to business leaders but to anyone exploring identity, purpose and connection in a fast-changing world.
The human element
What truly distinguishes BeyondFest 2025 is not just its speakers but its format. The “unconference” approach invites attendees to take the lead, join discussions and share ideas that matter to them. There is an emphasis on creating moments of genuine exchange over coffee, during lunch or in breakout circles where ideas are sparked naturally.
For busy professionals, creatives and small business owners, these moments of reflection and connection can be transformative. They offer a reminder that behind all strategy and technology, what truly matters is human connection.
What to expect at BeyondFest 2025
Here’s what participants can look forward to:
- A full-day experience (9am to 5pm) centred on collaboration, creativity and authenticity.
- A mix of keynotes, lightning talks and open discussions designed to inspire, not overwhelm.
- Conversations that explore AI, brand storytelling and the future of creativity in work and life.
- A space that feels inclusive, informal and rooted in community spirit.
For those seeking inspiration that blends professional purpose with personal meaning, BeyondFest offers that rare balance. It is as much about reimagining how we work as it is about rethinking how we connect.
Final thoughts
If BeyondFest 2025 stands for one idea, it is this: in an age defined by automation, human connection is still our greatest strength. Creativity remains our compass, and authenticity is not a marketing tool but a mindset.
By stepping into this space, attendees are choosing to move beyond performance and towards purpose. They are joining a community that asks important questions: What if business could feel like belonging? What if creativity and values guided our choices? And what if our best ideas emerged not from presentations, but from meaningful conversations?
If that resonates with you, mark your calendar for 1 November and head to Kuala Lumpur for BeyondFest 2025. It might not just change how you work; it could change how you see creativity itself.
Tickets and the full agenda are available on the official BeyondFest website here.
